Looking for an apartment in downtown Austin but not sure what your rent actually covers? Between amenity fees, technology packages and third-party utilities, it’s easy to lose track of what’s included and what’s not.
At Paseo, we know how important it is to understand your total monthly cost before signing a lease. To help you plan with confidence, here’s what’s included in apartment rent in downtown Austin and what’s typically billed separately.
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1. Security Features in Downtown Austin Apartments
Security and controlled access are standard in luxury apartments across downtown Austin. Expect secure parking garages, electronic fob entry and video-monitored common areas.
Properties in busier areas like Rainey Street or the 2nd Street District may also offer 24-hour concierge service or on-site security. These features are generally covered in your rent, though it’s always smart to confirm which security measures are included before signing.
2. Access to Community Amenities

Most apartments in downtown Austin include access to community amenities, but these are not always part of your base rent. Many properties, including Paseo, charge a monthly amenity fee that covers the upkeep and access to shared spaces.
Expect pools, fitness centers and co-working lounges as standard. Downtown Austin’s newest communities often elevate the experience with rooftop decks, wellness studios and resident lounges designed for connection. It’s recommended to ask if these are part of your base rent or are billed separately.
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3. Utilities Included in Downtown Austin Apartments
While access to community spaces and security may be built into your base rent, utilities are almost always separate line items in Austin.
Most luxury apartments include trash and technology or internet packages (covering Wi-Fi and/or cable) as flat monthly fees, usually $10–$25 for trash and $50–$125 for tech or internet.
Other utilities such as water, electricity, gas and sewage are billed by third-party companies such as Conservice or SimpleBills and fluctuate based on your usage.
If you’re comparing all-inclusive apartments in Austin, remember that fully bundled utilities are rare downtown. Still, you can expect consistent monthly add-ons for tech and trash, and it’s always smart to ask for average utility estimates during your tour.
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Total Monthly Cost of Downtown Austin Apartments
Every apartment community in downtown Austin structures their fees a little differently, so it’s best to ask for a “Total Monthly Cost” estimate before signing a lease. This total usually includes:
- Base rent
- Monthly amenity fee
- Technology/trash package
- Variable utilities
Clarifying each line item upfront helps you avoid surprise charges and compare apartments on an even playing field.
We hope this helped you understand what’s included in apartment rent in downtown Austin. Whether you’re budgeting for your first move or comparing properties near Rainey Street, knowing what’s covered helps you make a confident decision.
Ready to see what downtown living can look like? Contact our leasing team to learn more about life at Paseo.
Please note that access to amenities, security features and community offerings may vary by property and are subject to change. These details are not guaranteed in your lease agreement, so be sure to confirm what’s currently available before signing.
James Idunate
James is a leasing professional at Paseo, born and raised in Austin. He’s passionate about building authentic relationships and helping create a community here at Paseo. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him on the golf course, out on the lake or finding new restaurants around Austin. James' go-to Daydreamer Café order is a mocha with oat milk and honey!
October 27, 2025